Importance of early diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer patients

The incidence of lung cancer is increasing across the country. Lung cancer is the leading cause of death among cancer patients. However, if this disease is diagnosed and treated early, the patient has a better chance of recovery. Six out of ten people with lung cancer survive more than five years with treatment. If the disease is not diagnosed early, this rate drops to less than one in ten. Therefore, periodic health check-ups are very important for lung cancer patients.

According to the World Health Organization, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with smokers being at the highest risk. However, lung cancer is also increasing among non-smokers, a condition known in medical terms as non-passive smoking. The lungs are part of the respiratory system and are located on each side of the chest. These two spongy organs help to inhale oxygen and release carbon dioxide. When cancer cells form in this organ and then spread to other parts of the body, it is called lung cancer. Lung cancer is mainly caused by smoking. 60-70 percent of patients who smoke develop lung cancer.

According to expert doctors, the lungs are a very important organ in the human body. For the body to function smoothly, it is necessary for the lungs to function properly. The lungs are responsible for supplying oxygen to the rest of the body through the bloodstream. Cancer occurs when cells in a person's body grow out of control. When cancer starts in the lungs, it is called lung cancer. This cancer can spread to lymph nodes or other organs in the body. Sometimes, cancer that started in another organ spreads to the lungs.


There are two types of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is primarily associated with smokers, while non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can develop even in non-smokers who are exposed to smoke. The most significant risk factor for developing lung cancer is cigarette smoking, which is responsible for 90 percent of lung cancer cases. Therefore, quitting smoking is crucial in preventing lung cancer. Symptoms of lung cancer include cough, breathing difficulties, loss of appetite, weight loss, slurred speech, severe headache, and neck swelling. Risk factors include smoking, family history, heredity, increased exposure to radiation, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise.

Chest X-rays, sputum examination, biopsy, CT scans, and PET-CT scans are very useful in detecting lung cancer. Additionally, the endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) test can quickly diagnose lung cancer. Early detection of cancer can prevent damage to other organs. Furthermore, the doctor determines the next course of treatment by assessing the stage of the patient's cancer. Cancer patients are treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Additionally, patients may also be treated with medication and immunotherapy.
(Author: Dr Pritesh Munot, Medical Oncologist, Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai)